The Iloilo Business Expo (ILOBEX) kicked off at the Festive Walk Mall on January 20, 2025, marking its fifth year of operation. The event, organized by the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Iloilo, aims to provide a platform for local micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) to showcase and promote their products during the bustling Dinagyang season. Fulbert Woo, president of PCCI Iloilo, expressed satisfaction with the attendance, noting the presence of visitors from outside Iloilo.
The trade fair, supported by the Department of Trade and Industry, the Department of Agriculture, and both the city and provincial governments of Iloilo, features around 20 MSMEs. Velma Jane Lao, head of the Iloilo City Local Economic Development and Investment Promotion (LEDIP) office, highlighted the event’s role in combating poverty and fostering economic and sustainable development within the community.
A highlight of the fair is the display of Iloilo’s signature hablon, a handwoven textile made from natural fibers like abaca, piña, and cotton. Known for its intricate designs, hablon is favored by designers locally and internationally for creating high-quality apparel. The event also includes demonstrations of loom weaving by local artisans, adding an educational component to the expo.
In a new development, Woo announced that the expo will move to the Iloilo Convention Center (ICON) for the ILOBEX: DSTN (Destination) event. ICON will be transformed into an event center during Dinagyang, with half of the area dedicated to a foodscape. The four halls of ICON will host various events from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., including concerts, parties, and music festivals. DSTN is scheduled to run from January 24 to January 26.